Barcelona vs Benfica: Can Barcelona Secure UCL Quarter-Final Spot?
Barcelona needs not to lose against Benfica, and they will be through to the Champions League quarterfinals. After winning the first leg away, they will be confident of getting the job done at home.
Barcelona leads 1-0 from the first leg. It wasn’t the most convincing performance, but they have a lead to defend. And they are on top in La Liga, with their last league game postponed.
The break will help the players to recover, and they should be fresh for this Champions League match. The first leg was tough, but the early red card to Barça did make a big impact.
Benfica is second in the Portuguese league. They’ve been in good form recently and are in the title race.
Benfica bounced back from their defeat against Barça with a win in their domestic league. They’ll have to believe they can cause an upset in Barça.
Barcelona will have to be at its best to counter Benfica’s attack. This game is special after the passing of the club’s first team doctor, and the players will want to give their best in his memory.
Team News & Tactics
Let’s get into the team news and tactics both managers might use.
Barcelona
Barcelona has a few injury worries and a suspension to deal with. But Robert Lewandowski should be available after resting for the postponed league game. Gavi has recovered from his illness and might start on the bench.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Kounde, Araujo, Martinez, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski
Benfica
Benfica has a few players absent due to injury and suspension. Key players were rested in their last game with this Champions League match in mind.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Trubin; Santos, Silva, Otamendi, Dahl; Aursnes, Barreiro, Kokcu; Akturkoglu, Schjelderup, Pavlidis
Key Stats
Here are the key stats to keep in mind:
- Barcelona is looking to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for the second season running.
- The two teams have met several times; Barça has a slightly better head to head record.
- Barcelona are strong at home and has won most of their last games.
- Benfica has never won away to Barça.
- Barcelona has won 5 of their last 7 home games.
Player to Watch
Lamine Yamal
He’s been a great player this season. He’ll be a nightmare for Benfica’s defense with his speed and skill.
Barcelona vs Benfica Prediction
Barca should win and go through. Their defense and attack should be enough to beat Benfica.
Barca 2-0 Benfica
Barcelona vs Benfica Live Stream
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